Klara Hopkins

A devoted homemaker and faithful member of St. Dominic’s Catholic Church, Klara was a woman of deep faith who prayed the rosary daily. She took great pride in her spotless driving record, often attributing her safely to the fact that “God is my co-pilot.”

Klara possessed many talents that brought joy to her family and friends. She was a skilled seamstress and master of crochet, creating beautiful handmade items throughout her life. Her culinary gifts were legendary – her soups made in her treasured black cast iron “magic” pot and her authentic German potato pancakes were beloved by all who tasted them. An avid soccer (Fussball) fan, she also enjoyed playing Bingo, visiting Cripple Creek, completing word searches, and playing Yahtzee with loved ones.

Known for her sharp wit and strong opinions, Klara never hesitated to speak her mind. When asked “How are you?” her characteristic response was, “Did you look out the window? I am hanging in there.” She was happiest when surrounded by people to talk with, whether in person or by phone, and took immense pride in maintaining an immaculate home – a source of joy that reflected her journey from humble beginnings.

Despite facing significant physical challenges from childhood, including third-degree burns sustained at age three that caused lifelong pain and limitations, Klara lived life to the fullest. Though her final two years brought increased pain and difficulty, she has now found peace and freedom from suffering, reunited with her beloved family members who preceded her in death.

Above all, Klara’s greatest joy came from being “Oma” to her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Their visits and phone calls were the highlights of her days, and she loved them deeply and was immensely proud of each one.

Klara is survived by her daughters Dorothe Müller, Rose Poelma, and Christine Grogan; six grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; her sister Leni Dahlmann of Fort Walton Beach, Florida; and seventeen nieces and nephews in both the United States and Germany.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband Leon; her brother Erwin; her sisters Maria Trammel, Gertrude Marshall, and Rosi Thiesen; and her infant son Doane.

"Viel mehr Blumen während des Lebens, denn auf den Gräbern sind sie vergebens"